You are here:

Self-Care After a Stroke

Topic Overview

After a
stroke, keep in mind that you are the most important
person in your own recovery. You need to have a major say in the decisions
about your care. This may be hard for you, and you may sometimes feel like
sitting back and letting others take charge.

Make sure others understand that you want to be
involved in the decisions about your care.

State your wishes and
opinions on matters that affect you. Talk with your doctor about your concerns.
Ask questions.

If you need extra time to think or you have trouble
talking, try not to let others make decisions for you without hearing what you
have to say.

If you have a speech problem, you may have trouble getting
others to understand your wishes. Ask someone to help you express your ideas
and needs. Or write them down if you can.

If you feel that anyone
is "talking down" to you or speaking about you as if you were not present,
express your concern.

Know and follow your rehabilitation (rehab) plan. Most people find
that rehab is hard work and a slow process. Tasks and activities that
were easy for you before the stroke often seem more difficult after the
stroke.

Feeling sad about having a stroke and the resulting
disabilities is normal. But if you get depressed, it can interfere with your
recovery. At the first sign that you are feeling depressed, talk with your
family and your doctor. Early treatment for depression can prevent a delay in
recovery.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.